Human Performance in Continuous Operations: Description of a Simulation Model and User's Manual for Evaluation of Performance Degradation

Abstract : User instructions and reference materials are presented for a computer simulation model which analyzes the Performance Effectiveness of Combat Troops (PERFECT). The model allows analysis of anticipated performance effectiveness when variables such as continuous time in battle, light level, enemy/friendly numerical ratio, enemy/friendly terrain advantage, amount of platooning, and amount of sleep permitted are varied alone or in combination. The model is designed for interactive operation at a terminal by a user with no or minimum sophistication in computer science or computer use. The primary output of the model is tables of personnel effectiveness degradation by day, type of combat unit, and each of five 'combat factors.' Along with interpretive guidance, step-by-step procedures are presented for the preparation of model data and for running the model.